Real Madrid has offered Kylian Mbappe the No. 10 jersey after Luka Modric bid farewell to the Spanish giant and the most successful club in UEFA Champions League history ahead of the upcoming 2025-26 campaign. More information around the news came when it was revealed that Luka Modric, the Croatian midfield legend and Ballon d’Or winner, was set to leave and had held the famous No. 10 shirt since 2017.
Mbappe’s Arrival and Jersey Legacy at Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe, after switching jerseys from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid in the summer of 2024, immediately made an impressive debut season after taking over the No. 9 jersey worn last by fellow French compatriot Karim Benzema, who left in 2023 for Al-Ittihad of Saudi Arabia.
Though Mbappe is so famous for high performances from the left flank at PSG, he was deployed to act as a central striker, as Vinicius Jr. had already established himself on the left wing with the No. 7 jersey, which Mbappe also made popular at PSG.
A Stellar First Season in Spain
Moving from the French League 1 proved a good choice for Kylian Mbappe; he scored a record 43 goals during his first season, securing himself both the Pichichi Trophy and the European Golden Shoe. Although Real Madrid’s 2024-25 season didn’t end as many predicted, with an exit from the Champions League at the hands of Arsenal and a loss in the league title to rival Barcelona, the team won both the Super Cup and the International Cup, adding silverware to an already superb season for Mbappé.
The Iconic No.10 Jersey: A Symbol of Creativity and Leadership
Many legendary players have worn jersey No. 10 at Real Madrid and made a difference. Since the likes of Luis Figo, Mesut Ozil, Clarence Seedorf, and Michael Laudrup are club legends, the number is very sought-after at Real Madrid. Spurred by the latest report from Spanish outlet El Chiringuito, Mbappé is now permitted to use the No. 10 jersey, which points to his increased status and future role with Real.
What this Means for Real Madrid and Mbappé
The chance to give Mbappé the iconic No. 10 jersey is not only giving respect to tradition but redefining it. The team has perceived Mbappé as not just a scorer but a figure who can inspire the team to success. Following the exit of Modric, the space of leadership and vision has to be filled, and the club sees Mbappe as a good replacement for the challenge ahead.
As 2025-26 comes, all eyes will be on Mbappe to see if he will be able to inspire Real Madrid to a better season compared to the last, especially giving him more responsibilities.
